Hmiel suffered fractures of the neck and back and is in the hospital’s intensive care unit awaiting surgery expected sometime in the next 24 hours.

Steve Hmiel, Shane’s father and a former NASCAR crew chief, says his son has a “long road to recovery” and is quick to thank all the fans and friends who offered their concerns and prayers in the hours following the accident.

“We are optimistic for Shane’s recovery,” stated USAC President/CEO Kevin Miller, and have committed our resources to the Hmiel family. “We will monitor Shane’s hospitalization and will provide updates on his progress.”